Today, from American voters in an ugly U.S. election season to the rhetoric of newly elected Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, we are hearing widespread anger against the governing structures of our time, against inequality and elitism. This sense of disempowerment is real and understandable. But is globalization really the root of this? Our challenge, as individuals in this era of discontent, is to ensure that we can still come together to move forward and improve the lives of all.

The current international monetary order is failing to provide the necessary tools to cope with episodes of capital flow volatility. In the short term, the BRICS countries should step in and take steps to address this issue. In the long run, they should seek to reform the monetary system and promote international financial stability.

Expectations are high as leaders meet to promote strong trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and develop partnerships characterized by inter-connectivity, unity, consultation, development and shared benefits.

This December marks the 15th anniversary of China’s accession to the World Trade Organization. In the past 15 years, China could have played a bigger role in promoting global governance had the world’s institutional structures allowed it optimum participation in the global rule-making process. That will be China’s main objective in the future.

China is increasingly portrayed as the next disaster in a crisis-prone world. Stephen S. Roach disagrees, recognizing his minority opinion. Roach argues that without China, the world economy would already be in recession, citing the IMF’s October World Economic Outlook.

In Europe, Asia, and South America, preferences for either Clinton or Trump differ based on the candidates’ views on trade, the economy, and foreign policy doctrine. Though Clinton is the preferred candidate in most areas, whoever the next U.S. president is will face significant challenges on several continents.

Despite the current rash of nationalism and protectionism around the world, there is every reason to believe that the next high tide of globalization – thanks to the joint efforts of the international community – will bring greater and more inclusive fortune and felicity to humankind.

Economic and trade cooperation plays a prominent role in the global economic governance system. With both countries facing new economic environments and opportunities, it’s extremely importance to deepen cooperation for their own benefits and for overall global prosperity.

China plays a central role in driving global economic recovery and growth, and hosting the recent meetings showed the country’s potential to lead with new ideas. With the progress of China’s grand rejuvenation, China will be able to contribute more with Chinese wisdom, solutions and power to global economic development.

Despite the election-year rhetoric in the US, free-trade has been good for both countries and their people, and China and the US should both fight protectionism and support less-restricted trade to lead the global economy back to a path of strong, sustainable and balanced growth.